Press Releases

PORTLAND, ORE. – Nov. 12, 2013 – Medical Teams International (MTI) is preparing to send the first of several volunteer medical teams to the Philippines to provide care to those affected by Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the most powerful typhoons on record.

In the aftermath of the storm, the humanitarian relief and development organization has mobilized shipments of life-saving medicines and medical supplies. Additionally, Medical Teams International is mobilizing the first of several disaster response teams to be dispatched to the region to provide medical care.
At least 10,000 people are estimated to have been killed and thousands are in desperate need of aid. Relief efforts have been hampered by damaged infrastructure and bad weather, making the hardest hit areas difficult to access.

“Our teams of expert volunteers are prepared to address the health needs of as many survivors of this disaster as we possibly can,” said Jeff Pinneo, President & CEO of Medical Teams International. “We’re grateful for the volunteers’ compassion and willingness to serve those who so desperately need our help.”

The first teams to depart leave Sea-Tac and PDX on Nov. 13 (information about interviewing these volunteers prior to their departure is below). MTI anticipates addressing physical injuries resulting from the disaster and assisting people with chronic conditions who cannot access medicines or care. Water-borne diseases, cholera and upper respiratory infections are also significant health concerns in the wake of the storm.

Medical Teams International is seeking support to fund these efforts. Online donations are accepted at www.medicalteams.org/typhoon.

The volunteer medical professionals are available for media interviews prior to their planes’ departures. Information follows:

Dr. Dan Diamond from Seattle
Dan will be available for interviews at the Korean Air check in desk at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport from 10:00-10:30 a.m.

The team departing from Portland, including Ian Yocum (paramedic), Enrique Selga (RN), Robert Petracca (EMT) and Jason Morgan (paramedic), will be available for interviews at the Korean Air check in desk at PDX from 7-7:30 a.m.